So here it is, the night before you head off on your trip to Finale Ligure, your brain isn't thinking straight, you are filled with excitement and probably busy watching all your favourite mountain bike films when you should be packing for the trip.
The WORST thing that can happen is that you forget something and end up having to spend valuable Gelato money on mountain bike parts that are sitting back at home. It may seem old-fashioned but a checklist could just save your bacon.
The Checklist
Passport - Without this you aren't getting past the boarding gate. Stash it in your pocket and check it before you leave the house!
Money - Without this your aren't going anywhere. Finale Ligure is a rough place and your bike takes a beating so cash for spare parts is always good. It also pays for the beers and ice cream at the end of a ride.
Phone - Bring your phone out with you. You need it in case of emergency and its also helpful to take selfies, catching KOMs and generally making your mates jealous.
Bike - This is self explanatory but people are forever forgetting pedals, axles and mech hangers. let the air pressure down in your tires for the flight and space your brake pads. There is nothing worse than trying to jam your rotor into place and damaging your brake pads in the process.
Shoes - Important especially if you are riding those “clipped” things. Our personal favourite footwear are 5.10's they stick like Sh*t to a shovel.
Helmet - Always wear one when out for a ride. This is an EWS venue for a reason. The tracks are there to test you and you can't always crash the way you'd like. We suggest a full face as you aren't having to pedal due to the uplift, its just safer.
Goggles - Very important as the dust from Finale is blinding, trust us there is nothing worse than not being able to see after a mate roosts a corner.
Shorts - It's hot in Finale Ligure so lightweight shorts are advised, as many pairs as you think necessary for a week's worth of riding.
Jersey/t-shirt - Always a good shout you don't want sunburn to ruin your week.
Jacket - In the unlikely eventuality that it does rain, a Lightweight rain jacket is always good to have.
Swim Shorts - The sea is 50 metres from the chalet, a morning and evening dip helps to relax your muscles and prepare you for a day of riding.
Gloves - As mentioned above protection for your hands is just better, unless you are Sam Blenkinsop.
Knee pads - Those things that hold your legs together are pretty important and also very fragile. Be it enduro knee pads or full DH ones this will avoid a lot of unnecessary pain if you do take a tumble.
Bike specific tools. - Any of those weird tools that you just can't fix your bike without.
Top Tips - Bring a spare quick link. A quick and easy way to store this on your bike is with some electrical tape on the brake hose. You will forget all about it but it will save you when you are out on the trails!
Bike Maintenance in Finale Ligure
Don't worry when it comes to general maintenance, there is a tool kit provided. If you have a more complicated problem or you would like some advice on suspension set up etc, our expert mechanic is on hand in the evenings and mornings to get you ready for a big day on the hill.
Finally
Bring a smile, you are on holiday, watch all those bike videos and prepare for some of the best riding you have ever experienced finished with a cool beer and some ice cream at the end of the day. From the minute you land to the day you leave the MTB Beds staff have got you covered.
We look forward to seeing you out here!
